What Should You Look for in an Eco-Friendly Folder?

Running an eco-friendly company means finding ways to go green in every aspect of your business-including your presentation tools. A green folder may not seem like it has much of an environmental impact, but it will greatly reduce your company’s paper waste and carbon footprint. The next time you order presentation folders, consider these eco friendly options.

A presentation folder made from recycled materials.

Recycled Materials

When it comes time to choose a paper or linen stock option for your presentation folders, select an option made from recycled materials. The best eco friendly folders are made from 100% post-consumer waste, but even folders made from 50% post-consumer waste can make a difference.

Selecting a stock made from recycled materials means that no trees had to be cut down to manufacture your presentation folder. Green folders are just as sturdy and attractive-looking as those manufactured from wood pulp.

Renewable Resource

If the best option for your company happens to be outside the realm of recycled material, there are other eco friendly options to consider. Sustainable logging practices are the most eco friendly choice if you must select a folder made with virgin fiber. Sustainable paper practices include planting new trees for every one that is cut down or harvesting timber from a tree farm. These eco friendly practices reduce the need to cut down old growth trees and forests.

Eco Friendly Ink

Vegetable or soy ink is a much more eco friendly option for your presentation folder than petroleum-based ink. Petroleum ink is high in volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can seep into the ground and contaminate the water supply.

Embossing is an eco friendly option because it requires no ink.

It also takes less ink to cover a surface when using soy or vegetable based products. This eliminates unnecessary waste and reduces the carbon footprint of your eco friendly folder. Use an embossed picture instead of a printed picture to eliminate the toxicity of ink altogether.

Reusability

A truly green folder is one that you can reuse over and over again. The sturdiness of the folder goes a long way towards its reusability; however, so does the design of the folder itself. When customizing your folder, select options that will allow you to use it on more than one occasion.

Put a simple company logo on the front so that you can use the folder for any business occasion. Eliminate any logo altogether for an eco friendly folder that can be used in any aspect of your life. When handing out folders to clients or investors, consider options that would encourage the recipient to use the folder again in a different capacity.

Reduce your company’s paper waste by using eco friendly folders that can be recycled.

Recyclability

Unfortunately, the lifespan of your folder will someday come to an end. When it is time to part ways with a presentation folder you want to be able to recycle it instead of just tossing it in the garbage.

It’s not enough to just be made from recycled materials if a green folder can’t be turned into recycled material itself. Unfortunately, not every person you give a folder to will dispose of it properly; by giving them the option to do so, you can increase the likelihood of them following in your eco friendly footsteps.

A green folder is just one of the many ways your business can become more environmentally friendly. When your clients see that you use folders made from recycled materials, they will feel more comfortable doing business with a company that cares about the environment.

We believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to ensuring your business looks its best. Our graphic artists, copywriters and print specialists aim to share their knowledge and give you the edge you need to create truly memorable marketing materials. Quality isn't just an act–it's a culture. Connect with us on Google+ and Twitter for more awesome info.